Marriage License FAQ

Is there a waiting period for a marriage license?

Yes. There is a 24-hour waiting period from the time of the application for the license to the time the marriage license can be issued. (Note: The office is not open on weekends, so you must apply no later than Thursday for a wedding on the following Saturday.) The ceremony can be conducted anytime after you receive your license.

Do you have to be a resident of South Carolina to get married in South Carolina?

No, but if the license is issued from a probate court in South Carolina the ceremony must be performed within the State.

Does the marriage license expire if it is not used?

Yes. The ceremony should be performed within six months of the date of issuance of the license. If the license is not returned to the probate court within six months from date of issuance it will be recorded as an unused license and you will be required to make another application.

What is the legal age to marry without parental consent?

18.

Is a blood test required?

No tests of any kind are required.

Can you get married in another state or in a foreign country using a South Carolina marriage license?

No. The ceremony must take place within the State. It can be performed in any of the State's forty-six counties, and does not have to be performed in the county where the license was issued and recorded.

Does the Probate Judge for Lexington County perform marriage ceremonies?

No. The Probate Judge for Lexington County does not perform marriage ceremonies. That is not a statutory duty of the office.

Are proxy marriages valid in South Carolina?

No. According to a longstanding opinion of the S.C. Attorney General, the bride and groom must both be present for the ceremony, and their attendance by telephone or proxy is not authorized.

We want a minister from out of state to performing our marriage ceremony. Does the minister need to be licensed in South Carolina?

No. Ministers are not licensed by the State, and there is not a residency requirement for the minister performing the marriage ceremony.

How may I contact the Probate Court if I have any other questions?

You may call (803) 785-8324.

After the marriage is administered, if the parties believe that grounds exist for an annulment can the Probate Judge order an annulment or declare the marriage invalid?

No. That is a Family Court matter.